FIRST-STRING Synonyms: 141 Similar and Opposite Words

first-string

adjective

ˈfərs(t)-ˈstriŋ

Definition of first-string

as in excellent

of the very best kind a first-string rendition of the musical piece

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of first-string Carrig most often is that man for the Heat, taking over first-string duties after Miami’s longtime official scorer, Peter Abraham, retired in 2022. — Fred Katz, New York Times, 17 Mar. 2026 While the Steelers gave Warren a modest contract extension just before the start of the season, there really is no definitive first-string running back, which is just the way offensive coordinator Arthur Smith likes it. — CBS News, 27 Dec. 2025 The Colorado product will be expected to improve after operating as the team's first-string quarterback with Gabriel remaining in the NFL's concussion protocol. — Jacob Camenker, USA Today, 23 Nov. 2025 Tustin’s first-string defense was just as overwhelming, holding the Vanguards to negative-16 yards in the first half while the offense built a 48-0 lead. — Dan Arritt, Oc Register, 18 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for first-string

Recent Examples of Synonyms for first-string

Adjective

Albies is an excellent contact hitter, putting the bat on the ball, and driving the ball to the gaps.

— Bernie Pleskoff, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2026
Located in the heart of the Marais, a restaurant at the Centre Pompidou would have to be pretty special to compete against all the excellent neighboring options.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Aug. 2026

Definition of excellent

Adjective

Lucasfilm hasn’t had a terrific year with its first film in theaters since 2019’s The Rise of Skywalker.

— Savannah Salazar, Vulture, 13 Aug. 2026
Chisholm was shaken up after trying to field Dominic Canzone's infield single in the ninth, but the second baseman remained in the game and followed with a terrific defensive play.

— CBS New York Team, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026

Definition of terrific

Adjective

The college game is stellar and the pro iteration might be even better.

— Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2026
The show is not yet as fine-tuned as its predecessor; some dialogue could use less theatrical melodrama and characterizations could be tightened, but staging is stellar.

— Jared Kaufman, Twin Cities, 10 Aug. 2026

Definition of stellar

Adjective

For a vibrant alfresco experience, COYA City's courtyard provides lighter Peruvian dishes, ceviches, and superb cocktails, perfect for summer lunches.

— Lela London, Forbes.com, 9 Aug. 2026
The robot did a superb job of cleaning the floors, walls, and surface of my 16-by-32-foot in-ground pool.

— John R. Delaney, PC Magazine, 5 Aug. 2026

Definition of superb

Adjective

Such a contrast to the wonderful Bootham Crescent, York’s home until 2020 and within stumbling distance of not only the famous Minster but all the city’s many other attractions.

— Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026
Stepping into the shoes of Steve McQueen is no easy feat, but Brosnan does so with style as Thomas Crown, a billionaire art thief who falls for the insurance investigator chasing him, played by the wonderful Rene Russo.

— Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of wonderful

Adjective

The backstory First inaugurated in 1900 for the Exposition Universelle at the turn of the century, this property is charismatically old at a lovely 125.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Aug. 2026
There are orange and ube lattes, that sea-salt cheese latte that only comes iced and soft serve with coffee – a drippy, lovely affogato.

— John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 10 Aug. 2026

Definition of lovely

Browse Nearby Words

first-rateness

first-string

firth

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“First-string.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first-string. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of first-string

adjective

Example Sentences

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